Unique Partnership of Land & Design Gives Showcase to New School of Architecture
Historically, only the wealthy have been able to build a home using an award winning and world-class architect. Thanks to the efforts of a partnership program the concept is now in place in the St. Louis, Missouri region. Not only did it all come together, but also it was done for an affordable price, and can be duplicated in most markets across the country.
Seattle, WA (PRWEB) December 18, 2004 -- Most homeowner’s dream of building a
home with an award winning and world-class architect. When you combine a
nationally known home design company and an experienced home consultant into the
mix, it would seem like an unrealistic home project for the average
consumer.
This dream sounds even more unreal when one tries to build the
home and at the same time, preserve the land that it is built on. How many times
have we driven by a job site and commented, “Too bad they couldn’t keep the
trees, what a shame!
Historically, only the wealthy have been able to put
all theses pieces together, the landscape designer, architect and the custom
builder. Thanks to the efforts of a partnership program the concept is now in
place in the St. Louis, Missouri region. Not only did it all come together, but
also it was done for an affordable price, and can be duplicated in most markets
across the country.
After seeing the architectural work of James Cutler,
Lindal Cedar Homes of Seattle, WA. partnered with Cutler/Anderson, the
award-winning architectural firm, to create a series of homes available
nationwide. Together they packaged a series of homes, which would be affordable
to a larger audience of consumers who wanted an architectural engineered house
made of natural elements and set in natural surroundings. Even though James
Cutler, was one of the architects for Microsoft founder Bill Gates’ home, Jim
prides himself more as a dedicated proponent of making a social change with
architecture as it fits into the environment.
The design influence of the
two firms developed a home that manifests itself in simple plans and formal
compositions of the homes. These residences, mostly finished in wood inside and
out, are in harmony with their forested sites. The homes do not rely on the
manipulation of architectural space, but rather uses the nature of materials to
create a solid sense of place in a natural setting.
Once the design
elements were set in place with the housing design firm and architect, two other
elements were needed to complete the picture. First, was to find the right
custom home consultant who appreciated the concept and second, the right piece
of property. The circle was complete, when long time Lindal Cedar Homes
distributor and custom home consultant, Ken Whipple of Manitou Custom Homes,
reviewed the designs and liked the environmental tie in. Ken set the final
element in motion and contacted the developers at Innsbrook Resort Community,
near St, Louis, MO. Their location, with the right environment of wooded lots,
was perfect,
Cutler feels very strongly that homes must respect, and
protect nature. As part of the building process, he generally likes to be sure
that the building crews disturb as little as possible around the area of the
house, so that his design can showcase the outdoors. Once inside, his designs
invite the outside world in. The land, the house, and the interior all become
one!
In order to ensure the integrity of this project, Cutler relied on
Ken Whipple, the area Lindal Cedar Homes’ representative, to provide him with
digital photos, on site environmental measurements and other information about
the landscape so that his firm could properly place the home.
The home,
which is part of the Lindal Reflection Series, is “pattern-designed” so that
cores and wings can be interchanged to efficiently provide a residence that
meets the needs of the homebuyer. This allows for maximum flexibility in placing
the building within the landscape. The 3459 sq ft home is located on a 236-acre,
Lake Alpine, which is part of the Innsbrook community. Interior design of the
home was done by: Steve Patton of Frank Patton Interiors and the landscape
architect: Keith Thompson, Innsbrook Horticulturist.
The design, the
concept, and the environmental concerns, have generated a lot of interest. Plans
are now underway for similar homes in Maryland, and Michigan. Additional
information on this unique home can be obtained by contacting Ken Whipple at:
800-447-3814 or at: www.lindal.com/manitou
About Designer/Architect: James
Cutler
James Cutler, based in the Pacific Northwest, is most widely known as
the architect (in joint venture with Bohlin Cywinski Jackson) for the $50m home
for Microsoft founder Bill Gates, currently under construction. James recent
book titled "James Cutler" features some of his most creative works like: The
Wright guest house, The "Bridge House" which spans 42’ across a small stream,
giving the living areas excellent views on a constricted site and The Medina
guest house, swimming pool, and garage complex are buried into a sloping
waterfront site. James Cutler's book by Theresa Morrow is available from
Rockport Publications.
About Lindal Cedar Homes, Inc.
Based in
Seattle, Lindal has been in business for sixty years and is the largest designer
and manufacturer of custom, post and beam cedar homes in the world. With
Lindal's added a value-engineered post and beam building system; the company has
capabilities to manufacture homes that meet a variety of budgets and
architectural styles. Lindal offers over 3,000 popular plans, including Classic
Lindal, Contemporary and Traditional designs. Lindal products are sold and
serviced through an international dealer network. Additional information on
Lindal Cedar Homes can be obtained on their web site: www.lindal.com or by calling
800-426-0536
About Manitou Custom Homes
Manitou Custom Homes has been
one of Lindal Cedar Homes celebrated top independent distributors for 16 out of
the last 17 years. They are recipients of numerous industry awards. They have
offices located in: Kalamazoo Michigan, St Joseph Michigan, Highland Michigan,
Lees Summit, MO., and a Sales outlet in Wright City, MO.
Ken Whipple, and
his team of professionals can be contacted at: 800-447-3814 Additional
information on Manitou Custom Homes can be obtained on their web site: www.manitou.net
About
Innsbrook
Innsbrook Resort Community is a certified Audubon Sanctuary, which
sits on 6,000 acres with 85 lakes, 125 miles of private roads. Innsbrook Resort
is located in Innsbrook, Missouri in Warren County, less than an hour’s drive
west of St. Louis off Interstate 70.
Resort amenities & activities
includes: 18-Hole Golf Course, Mini Golf Course, Horse Stables, Tennis Courts,
Basketball Courts, Sand Volleyball, Sand beaches, Swimming pool, Nature trails,
Fishing/Live Bait, Fitness Center Sauna & Hot Tub, Bike & Boat Rental,
Sports Equipment Rental, Art Exhibits, Summer Breeze Camp Innsbrook,
Performances/Concerts and Activities for Kids. Information on Innsbrook is
available at: www.innsbrook-resort.com.
Interior and exterior images
are available upon request.
Contact:
Ken Whipple
Manitou Custom
Homes
800-447-3814
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Source: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2004/12/prweb190096.htm